India Opens Airwaves to Save Lives: Unlocks 5.9 GHz Spectrum for Connected Mobility

India has taken a landmark step by de-licensing 30 MHz of spectrum in the 5875–5905 MHz band for Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication, aligning itself with the EU, US, Japan, and South Korea in advancing connected mobility infrastructure.

Why This Matters
- Road Safety Impact: With nearly 1.7 lakh fatalities annually, V2X technology offers a transformative intervention. Global studies show it can prevent up to 80% of crashes involving unimpaired drivers.
- Barrier Removed: The biggest hurdle—individual spectrum licensing—has been eliminated. Automotive OEMs, device makers, ITS providers, and highway operators can now deploy V2X solutions at scale.
- Global Alignment: India’s move signals to automakers and tech companies that it is an active participant shaping global connected mobility, not just a follower.

Policy & Industry Context
- The notification was issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in coordination with MoRTH, clearing the way for nationwide deployment.
- It builds on 12 months of structured advocacy and pilot deployments, with ITS India Forum playing a key role in consultations.
- Standards bodies like BIS and TEC now have a clear mandate to support V2X device certification and interoperability.

Strategic Significance
This decision positions India as a global leader in cooperative Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). It opens the door for:
- Real-time communication between vehicles, roadside units, and traffic systems.
- Safer highways under NHAI’s national network.
- Integration with smart city initiatives and digital transformation goals.

In essence, India has just laid the digital foundation for safer, smarter roads, with implications for both domestic safety and international automotive collaboration.